Apparatus and methods for modifying keratinous surfaces

ABSTRACT

A method and device for analyzing and treating tonal imperfections on human skin. The method has the steps of providing a preselected background L value. One or more treatment images of the skin are taken and at least one localized L value of individual pixels or group of pixels is calculated within the treatment image. The local L value is compared to the background L value. Skin deviations are areas of skin where the absolute value of the difference between a local L and the background L is greater than a predetermined ΔL S . Skin deviations are identified by this method and then treated with a treatment composition.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an apparatus for applying compositions toskin, and other keratinous surfaces. The compositions can modify coloror structure of the keratinous surface.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Tonal variations on human skin have multiple causes. Acne, freckles, sundamage, and age spots are just a few of the common causes of visibledefects on skin. Textural variations such as fine lines, wrinkles andscars are also well known. Both tonal and textural deviations arenoticeable and are highly noticeable to the human eye, even when theyare quite small. Covering large areas of skin on and around deviationswith makeup or other concealers is known.

Moreover, attempts have been made at more precise, and localizedapplication of compositions that hide, or cover-up skin deviations.Handheld devices that are moved across the skin have been developed toapply skin treatment compositions to local defects. But these deviceshave been plagued by the absence of two necessary components, speed andaccuracy. For these handheld devices to work effectively, they must findthe defects quickly, and treat them immediately. Finding a spot on theskin is of little use if the user has moved the applicator head to adifferent area of the skin before the spot can be effectively treated.

Therefore, there exists a need for methods and apparatuses that canquickly and precisely detect tonal and textural defects on skin. Thenwith equal speed and precision, apply treatment compositions directly tothe deviations. These methods and apparatuses are defined by the presentinvention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a method and device for analyzing andtreating tonal imperfections on human skin. The method has the steps ofproviding a preselected background L value. One or more treatment imagesof the skin are taken and at least one localized L value of individualpixels or group of pixels is calculated within the treatment image. Thelocal L value is compared to the background L value. Skin deviations areareas of skin where the absolute value of the difference between a localL and the background L, ΔL_(M), is greater than a predetermined ΔL_(S)(where “M” refers to a measured ΔL and “S” refers to a set ΔL). Skindeviations are identified by this method and then treated with atreatment composition.

The present invention solves many problems with prior devices andmethods. Specifically, tonal variations on skin are more accurately andquickly detected. The speed with which a skin deviation is found andidentified is critical because the applicator is continuously movingacross the skin. The quicker the deviation is identified, the quickerthe applicator nozzle, or nozzles can be activated. The quicker thenozzles are activated the more likely the skin treatment compositionwill hit the deviation precisely. This allows for the optimal coverageof the deviation, and minimal coverage on the areas of natural skin thatdo not need treatment. Thus, the simpler the detection algorithm is, andthe simpler the apparatus is that implements the algorithm is, thequicker and more precise the overall correction process is. This is asubstantial improvement over more complicated, slower and less preciseapparatuses and methods of the past.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing outand distinctly claiming the present invention, it is believed the samewill be better understood from the following description taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawing in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an analytical window accordingto the present invention wherein skin is analyzed according to themethods of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a hand held apparatus according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an ink jet cartridge according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is the natural, uncovered skin of a female consumer;

FIG. 5 is the same female consumer in FIG. 4 with applied makeup; and,

FIG. 6 is the same female consumer as shown in FIG. 4, with no makeupon, after being treated by the methods and apparatuses of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention may be understood more readily by reference to thefollowing detailed description of illustrative and preferredembodiments. It is to be understood that the scope of the claims is notlimited to the specific compositions, methods, conditions, devices, orparameters described herein, and that the terminology used herein is notintended to be limiting of the claimed invention. Also, as used in thespecification, including the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include the plural, and reference to a particularnumerical value includes at least that particular value, unless thecontext clearly dictates otherwise. When a range of values is expressed,another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to theother particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed asapproximations, by use of the antecedent basis “about,” it will beunderstood that the particular values form another embodiment. Allranges are inclusive and combinable.

The term “frexel” is defined as a small pixel-like region of thekeratinous surface. A frexel might correspond to a small portion of afreckle or other skin feature, or it may correspond to an area of thekeratinous surface that does not have special features. The term frexelis used to suggest that what is being measured is on a 3-D surfacerather than a flat surface. A region of keratinous surface is comprisedof a plurality of frexels. For instance, if a resolution of 300 dots perinch (11.8 dots per mm or “dpmm”) is used, a frexel may have a width andheight of about 1/300th of an inch (0.085 mm) so that there areapproximately 90,000 frexels per square inch (about 140 frexels persquare mm). The surface of the human body may have millions of frexels.

All percentages and ratios used herein are by weight of the totalcomposition, and all measurements made are at 25° C., unless otherwisedesignated.

The methods, apparatuses, and compositions of the present invention arebest understood with reference to the method of use. Each of the processsteps, the apparatuses and the compositions used in that step aredescribed in turn below.

The present methods, in their simplest form, are directed to analyzingand treating tonal imperfections on human skin that comprises the stepsof taking at least one background image of at least 10 μm² of skin andthen calculating the average background L value of the image on a greyscale. Further, from the same image, a localized L value is calculatedfor individual pixels or a group of pixels. The local L value is thencompared to the background L value to identify skin deviations. A skindeviation is an area of skin where the absolute value of the differencebetween a local L value and the background L, (this difference beingdefined as “ΔL_(M)” or the measured ΔL, “Δ” is commonly defined as thesymbol for a difference between two values) is greater than apredetermined ΔL_(S). The background L can be preset, or calculated by avariety of methods described below. The skin deviations are then treatedwith a treatment composition having a predetermined or variable contrastratio.

The background L can be calculated anywhere within the image. The imageis taken where the nozzles will fire the treatment composition. Thebackground L can be the arithmetic average, median, or mean of aplurality of local Ls, which means the calculation can include all ofthe local Ls in the image, or a subset thereof.

Likewise, there are provided apparatuses for treating human skin. Theapparatus has an applicator head that includes multiple applicatornozzles and a reservoir for containing a treatment composition, whichcan be a skin treatment composition. There is further provided a sensor,an optional illumination source and a CPU. The optional illuminationsource illuminates the skin area, the sensor takes an image of at least10 μm² of skin and the CPU analyzes the image to calculate the averagebackground L value. The sensor output is also used to calculate thelocalized L value of individual pixels or groups of pixels of skin. TheCPU then compares the local L value to the background L value toidentify skin deviations where the difference between the two L valuesis greater than a predetermined value. The sensor readings containvalues selected from the group of color, brightness, reflectance,refractance, temperature, texture and mixtures thereof

Exemplary treatment compositions for use with the present system includecosmetics, polymerics, polymeric actives aqueous, non-aqueous, particleloaded, optical modifier, fillers, optical matchers, skin actives, nailactives, hair actives, oral care actives, anti-inflammatory,antibacterial, antimicrobial, surfactant or surfactant containingactive, quantum dots and combinations thereof. Exemplary surfaces andsubstrates for the application of the treatment composition by thepresent deposition system include keratinous surfaces, woven surfaces,non-woven surfaces, porous surfaces, non-porous surfaces, wood, teeth,tongue, metallic, tile, fabric, and combinations thereof

The central processing unit (“CPU”) of the device can be any of avariety of commercially available devices. In its simplest form, the CPUis a single programmable chip like those found in consumer electronicdevices such as a lap top computer, a cell phone, an electric razor andthe like. Those skilled in the art will know of a variety ofcommercially available chips and other processors suitable for use withthis invention. CPU may include Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), controller, Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), integratedcircuit, microcontroller, microprocessor, processor, and the like. TheCPU may also include memory functionality, either internal to the CPU ascache memory, for example Random Access Memory (RAM), Static RandomAccess Memory (SRAM) and the like or external to the CPU for example asDynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), Static RAM,Flash Memory (e.g., Compact Flash or SmartMedia cards), disk drives,Solid State Disk Drives (SSD) or even Internet Cloud storage. While itis anticipated that a remote CPU, either tethered to the device, orwhich communicates wirelessly, can be used to accomplish the methods ofthe present invention, a local CPU within the device is exemplifiedherein. Size and speed of the CPU is an important consideration of thedesign parameters, but cost and other considerations will be consideredby the device designers.

The predetermined ΔL_(S) is the absolute value of the difference betweenthe local L and the background L. This value, ΔL_(S), can be defined inabsolute numbers or as a percentage. The sensor is for example a camerathat takes black and white or color images, a spectrophotometer orsimilar devices that are sensitive to electromagnetic energy wavelengthssuch as ultraviolet (uv) infrared (IR). The sensor may also be achemical sensor, ultrasonic sensor and the like. The images are taken,or converted to a standard grey scale that is known to the art. It isunderstood that any numerical scale that measures lightness to darknesscan be considered a “grey scale”. Moreover, as used herein, “grey scale”is intended to be a linear scale, or one band, or one visual attribute.For example, one “grey scale” visual attribute could be singlewavelength or a narrow wavelength to define a specific visual color.Another example of one “grey scale” visual attribute could be a mix ofwavelength numerical values averaged for each pixel making up the image,such as a true black, grey or white image from an RGB mixture.

It will also be understood to those skilled in the art that thebackground L value should not be too close to the ends of this scale.For example, if the grey scale is 0-100, with 0 being pure black and 100being pure white, a background in the 0-10 range, or in the 90-100 rangemay be too light or too dark to show meaningful differences.Accordingly, one can adjust the background lighting, or the gain on thecamera taking the image, to move the background L closer to the middleof the scale. In this example, a background L of 50 would be ideal, witha background L in the range of 10-90 preferred, 20-80 even morepreferred.

The most common grey scale is 0-255 (no units) and other examplesinclude 0-1024 and 0-4096. For a grey scale of 0-255, the differencebetween grey scale steps is at least 1/255. In this example it would bedesirable to use camera and lighting settings that provide a backgroundL value between 60 and 210. Using the 0-255 gray scale the ΔL_(S) ispreferably at least 0.5, more preferably at least 1 and even morepreferably at least 1.5, to initiate treatment of the skin. Likewise,ΔL_(S) can be measured as a percentage, for example, a numerical ΔL_(S)of 2.6 is approximately equal to 1.0% of a 255 grey scale. Thus ΔL_(S)may be plus or minus 0.25%, preferably plus or minus 0.5% even morepreferably plus or minus 0.75%, of the grayscale.

The skin treatment compositions used to hide, or more appropriately, tocamouflage a skin deviation are described and exemplified in greaterdetail below. One important characteristic of the skin treatmentcompositions of the present invention is the contrast ratio. Thecontrast ratio of the treatment composition when treating the skin is atleast 0.1. The skin lightness and treatment composition lightness can bemeasured by a calibrated spectrophotometer using known methods. In thecase of using a calibrated spectrophotometer, the average L value ofhuman skin usually spans the range of about 25 to 75. In this case thecorresponding treatment composition has a lightness value of at least 2units greater, preferably at least 3 units greater, and even morepreferably at least 5 units greater than the average skin lightnessvalue of the consumer.

Images are taken in sequence or preferably continuously. A camera thattakes a minimum of 4 frames per second is preferred. Higher speedcameras (greater than 4 frames per second) are desired as well forexample greater 100 frames per second and even greater than 200 framesper second and even greater than 600 frames per second. All images areeither taken in a grey scale or converted to a grey scale, and the greyscale can have any range, for example, 0-255, no units. This correspondsapproximately to a refresh rate of 0.2 seconds or faster. Consistentwith the camera, the CPU processes at a rate of 100 frames per secondand even greater than 200 frames per second and even greater than 600frames per second.

There is no technical difference between an image used for background Lvalues and those used for local L values, the difference is in theanalysis of the image. Hence, the images are continually sent to theCPU, that is, the processing unit, to calculate the L values, and ΔL_(M)values. By “sent” it is understood, that preferably at least 4 bits ofdata per pixel are transferred for each image, and preferably, this 4bit (or more) packet of data is used in the calculation of each local Lvalue. It is understood, that the background L can be calculated once ina treatment period and that value reused throughout the treatmentperiod. Or it can be continually recalculated as long as the treatmentprocess goes on. Moreover, there can be pre-programmed triggers toinitiate a recalculation of the background L. Also, the background L maybe retrieved from the CPU memory to be used for the current backgroundL. For example, if an extended period of time elapses and no skindeviations are found, or if skin deviations are being found toofrequently, a new background L might automatically be calculated.Likewise, ΔL_(S) can be a set value that remains constant throughout thetreatment cycle or it too can vary. ΔL_(S) can be reset during thetreatment cycle for any of a variety of reasons. If too many nozzles arefiring too frequently, the ΔL_(S) can be adjusted to lower the intensityof the nozzle firing. Similarly, if the nozzles are firing tooinfrequently, ΔL_(S) can be adjusted in the opposite direction toincrease the sensitivity of skin deviation detection. Those skilled inthe art will appreciate that modifying ΔL_(S) during treatment is amatter of programming the CPU to or with a desired algorithm.

When the ΔL_(M) exceeds the predetermined value, the skin deviation istreated with the treatment composition. Treatment requires firing one ormore of the nozzles which dispense the treatment composition onto theskin in the area of the skin deviation. Preferably the treatmentcomposition is applied to the skin deviations in a discontinuousdeposition pattern of discrete droplets between about 0.1 μm to about 50μm in size. It is also preferred that no more than 85% to 95% of theskin deviation is covered by the treatment composition. Morespecifically, the treatment composition is applied via a array ofnozzles and the local L is calculated along the length of, and in thefiring range of, the array of nozzles. The “array” can be a linearconfiguration, multiple rows, off-set, sine wave, curved, circular, orsaw tooth arrangements of nozzles. Those skilled in the printing artswill appreciate the various configurations of nozzle arrays that arepossible for use in the methods and apparatuses disclosed herein. The“firing range” of a nozzle will vary based on its size, type, the speedthe device is moving, distance from the target, and other parameters.Examples of various types of nozzles suitable for use in the presentdevices are given below. But in general, “near the nozzle” as usedherein is meant to mean the image taken to calculate a local L value isclose to the area of skin where the treatment composition is depositedby the nozzle (the firing range, or landing zone of the nozzle). Withoutintending to limit the invention, near the nozzle means the image shouldbe taken within a radius of about 2 cm, preferably about 1 cm and evenmore preferably, about 0.7 cm from the center of the nozzle.

An individual nozzle may be fired to deposit the treatment composition,or multiple nozzles fired at the same time. The number of nozzles firedalong the linear array of nozzles can be adjusted based on the size ofthe ΔL_(M) and the size of the skin deviation. Furthermore the frequencyof nozzle firing can be adjusted based on the ΔL_(M), with more dropletsbeing fired in succession in response to larger ΔL_(M) values.

Firing intensity curves can be programmed into the CPU to adjust thefiring rate of nozzles. For example, if ΔL_(M) is equal to or slightlygreater than ΔL_(S), then the adjacent nozzle is fired 1 time. If ΔL_(M)increases to 2*ΔL_(S), then the adjacent nozzle is fired 25 times. Ifthe ΔL_(M) is 3*ΔL_(S), then the adjacent nozzle is fired 100 times.This non-limiting example is intended to show how the size of the ΔL_(M)with respect to the ΔL_(S) can determine the amount, and hence, theintensity of the firing of the nozzles adjacent the skin deviation.Those skilled in the art will appreciate that plotting a firingintensity curve using 2, 3 or more data points, and then programmingthat firing intensity curve into the CPU are known techniques.

The methods and apparatuses used by the present invention can be brieflysummarized as follows. Referring now to FIG. 1, where analytical window10 is an area that comprises a sample of skin 12 and nozzle array 20.The analytical window can be any shape including circular, square,rectangular, triangular, a parallelogram or a polygon. Nozzle array 20contains individual nozzles that are off or not firing 24, andindividual nozzles that are firing 22. Skin deviations 30 and 31 areshown underneath nozzle array sections 32 and 33. Background L iscalculated on and around skin area 12, skin area 14 is where local L₁ ismeasured and skin area 16 is where local L₂ is measured. Skin area 14 isunder nozzle array 20 but not within a skin deviation. Thus, theabsolute value of local L₁-background L (ΔL_(1M)) is less than thepreset threshold to initiate nozzle firing. The ΔL_(S) thresholdrequired to initiate nozzle firing is a variable and is dependent on thescale used. For example, in a case where the 0-255 gray scale isutilized then the ΔL_(S) threshold required to initiate nozzle firingwould commonly be a value of 2 or greater. Thus in the example shown inFIG. 1 the value of ΔL_(1M) is less than 2. Likewise, skin area 16 iswithin skin deviation 30, and the absolute value of local L₂-backgroundL (ΔL_(2M)) is greater than about 2. Thus the nozzles around skin areas24 and 14 are generally off, and the nozzles around skin area 16 aregenerally firing. To insure the nozzles do not clog with particles ordried treatment composition, any nozzle can be fired at any time simplyto keep it clean or clear, i.e., not blocked, and “healthy”. And asdiscussed above, the number of nozzles directly over a skin deviationthat are fired in response to the skin deviation can be adjusted basedon the size of ΔL_(S), the size (e.g., surface area) of the skindeviation or other parameters devised by those skilled in the art.

Treatment times will vary based on the size of the treatment area andthe precision and amount of the treatment. For example, a woman may wishto simply touch up a few small areas on her face before going to thegrocery store. This treatment might take a few minutes. Alternatively, ayoung bride might wear her wedding dress to a salon where a salonprofessional meticulously treats all exposed areas of skin prior to thewedding and the taking of her wedding pictures. This full body treatmentmight take hours. Accordingly, the consumer will have tremendous controlover the amount of time they choose to use the present device.

Referring now to FIG. 2, which shows a handheld apparatus 40 accordingto the present invention. Apparatus 40 is directly above skin 18,separated by physical spacer 42. Physical spacer 42 has a set,predetermined height a such that when it contacts skin 18, themechanical and electrical elements above the skin are all at a knowndistance from the skin. The mechanical and electrical elements areassociated with apparatus 40 and include, but may not be limited to,light 44, image capture device 46, nozzle array 20 which is embedded oncartridge die 54 which is attached to printer cartridge 52. All of theseelements are enclosed within optional apparatus housing 41. Light 44illuminates the area skin 18 within spacer 42 such that the imagecapture device 46 has relatively constant illumination. Backgroundlighting will affect the image capture as portions of spacer 42 lift offof skin 18 and allow background light in and the illumination from light44 to escape, but small deviations in illumination can be corrected forprovided light 44 provides a relatively constant backgroundillumination. Light 44 can be a light emitting diode (LED), incandescentlight, neon bulb based or any other commercially available source ofillumination. Light 44 can have constant illumination or adjustableillumination. For example, an adjustable light source might be useful ifthe background illumination is excessively bright or dark.

Image capture device 46 can be any of a variety of commerciallyavailable devices such as a simple camera or a digital cmos camera chip.Image capture device 46 takes a picture of skin 18 and sends it toprocessor 50 via image capture line 48 for analysis. Processor 50 isgenerally referred to as a central processing unit, or CPU, which maycomprise a simple circuit board, a more complex computer, or the likeand may include memory functionality. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that a CPU can be any of wide variety of commerciallyavailable programmable devices. As described above, the image may beanalyzed for local L values, background L values or both. Grey scaleconversion occurs within the analytical processing capabilities ofprocessor 50. The comparison of background L to local L to determine theΔL_(M) occurs within processor 50, which can be a commercially availableprogrammable chip, or other commercially available processing units.

The results of the image analysis, when compared to criteriapre-programmed into the processor, may result in a desired treatment ofthe skin. In such a case, for example when the calculate ΔL_(M) exceedsthe pre-determined ΔL_(S), a signal is sent from processor 50 tocartridge 52, via cartridge line 51, to fire one or more of the nozzlesin nozzle array 20. Power for cartridge 52, light 44, image capturedevice 46, processor 50, and other mechanical and electrical elementsthat might be present is supplied by power element 54 via multiple powerlines 55. Power element 54 can be turned off and on, which in turn turnsapparatus 40 off and on, via power switch 56 which can be locatedanywhere on apparatus 40, but is shown here on apparatus cover 58. Powerelement 54 may include energy storage functionality via a battery, arechargeable battery, an electrochemical capacitor, a double-layercapacitor, a supercapacitor or a hybrid battery-capacitor system.

Turning now to FIG. 3 which is an exploded view of the cartridge 52comprising cartridge cap 62 and cartridge body 64. Body 64 includesstandpipe 66 which is typically enclosed within body 66 and definesnozzle outlet 68. Optional filter 70 helps keep excessively largeparticles, and other debris out of the nozzle array 76. Filter 70 andnozzle array 76 are on opposite sides of nozzle outlet 68. Treatmentcomposition 74 partially fills cartridge body 64. Foam core 72 fillscartridge 64 and helps to regulate back pressure of the treatmentcomposition 74. Back pressure can be regulated via bladders (not shown)and other methods known to the art, the foam core shown here is just oneexample of how to help regulate flow of the treatment composition 74 tostandpipe 66 through filter 70 and into nozzle array 76. Connector 78provides the electrical power and signal to nozzle array 76. Treatmentcomposition 74 may be ejected from the cartridge 52 by piezoelectricmeans, thermal means, mechanical pumping means or a combination ofthese.

Treatment composition 74 within cartridge body 64 may comprise particlesand the treatment compositions preferably have a particle settling rateof less than 0.06 mm per day at 25° C. and 1 atm pressure. The treatmentcomposition may further have an elastic modulus between about 0.1 Pa toabout 1000 Pa at 25 C and 1000 Hz. Solid wax based treatmentcompositions may have an elastic modulus of up to about 100 MPa.Preferably, the particles in the treatment composition have a refractiveindex of between about 1.1 and about 5.0.

While inkjet cartridges are shown and exemplified herein, treatmentcompositions may be applied with other “flow control” devices ornon-drop control devices. Flow control devices typically arecharacterized as “drop control techniques” where individual droplets ofthe substance are controlled. Ink jet printers, which are known to theart, are examples of drop on demand applicators and this technology isapplicable for use in the present invention. Piezo electric drop controldevices and other micro electromechanical systems are appropriate foruse with the current devices. Spray devices and electrostatic spraydevices are non-drop control techniques where droplets are produced andcontrolled only in aggregate. Often in a spray device, a lack ofindividual droplet control, or “randomness” is desired in order toproduce a smooth application over a relatively large area. By contrast,it is often desirable to provide very specific control of the amount andplacement of the treatment compositions.

Examples of drop control include “fine flow control” where the flow ofthe substance is precisely controlled to deliver droplets as desired;and “inkjet technologies.” An older inkjet technology includes supplyinga continuous flow of charged droplets past electrostatic deflectorplates which are alternately charged so that the plates either permit adroplet to pass or deflect to a gutter. This technique was the originaldesign basis for inkjet printers. Other inkjet technologies include“drop on demand” such as thermal devices provided by Hewlett Packard,and piezoelectric devices such as provided by Epson and other printermanufacturers. In one embodiment of the current invention, the drop ondemand technology is combined with charging the droplets.

Equipment that might be useful in constructing an apparatus of thepresent invention are described in the following published patentapplications: WO 2008/098234 A2, Handheld Apparatus and Method for theAutomated Application of Cosmetics and Other Surfaces, first filed 11Feb. 2007; WO 2008/100878 A1, System and Method for Applying a Treatmentcomposition to Change a Person's Appearance Based on a Digital Image,first filed 12 Feb. 2007; WO 2008/098235 A2, System and Method forProviding Simulated Images Through Cosmetic Monitoring, first filed 11Feb. 2007; WO 2008/100880 A1, System and Method for Applying AgentElectrostatically to Human Skin, first filed 12 Feb. 2007; US2007/0049832 A1, System and Method for Medical Monitoring and TreatmentThrough Cosmetic Monitoring and Treatment, first filed 12 Aug. 2005; andUS 2007/0035815 A1, System and Method for Applying a Treatmentcomposition to Improve the Visual Attractiveness of Human Skin, firstfiled 12 Aug. 2005; All six applications filed by Edgar et al. Theentire disclosure of each of the six Edgar et al. applications isincorporated herein by reference.

The apparatuses of the present invention are preferably handheld but canbe tethered to a structure that moves the apparatus across thekeratinous surface to be modified. If handheld, the consumer wouldsimply move the apparatus across the keratinous surface to be treated.Optionally, multiple apparatuses can be configured in a stationarystructure wherein the consumer places the keratinous surface to bemodified and multiple readings and applications occur simultaneously orin sequence.

The treatment composition can be applied to the keratinous surface byscanning and applying at the same time while making multiple passes overthe surface. Several advantages result from using multiple passapplication. The process for multiple pass applications is to make apartial application of the treatment composition, then to scan again thearea of skin that has received the partial application. A furtherapplication of treatment compositions can be made, and still furthermultiple pass scanning and applications can be made to approach anaesthetic goal. Thus, the consumer can select the end point of thetreatment, i.e. the “aesthetic goal”, thus tailoring the treatment timeto individual needs and preferences. Attempting to make all correctionsin one treatment pass has been shown to overcorrect in certain areas.

It may be desirable for the apparatus to treat from about 1.0% to about10% of the keratinous surface that is read by the sensor with atreatment composition. And the applicator may apply the first treatmentcomposition in droplets having an average diameter of from about fromabout 0.1 μm to about 50 μm.

Treatment Compositions

The present invention may utilize a variety of treatment compositions,for example, inks, dyes, pigments, adhesives, curable compositions,optically activated compounds, (for example, semiconductor quantum dots)metal oxides (for example, TiO2), hollow spheres, bleaching agents,texture reducing polymers, skin care compositions, hair colorants, hairremoval compositions (often referred to as depilatories), hair growthstimulants and mixtures thereof.

The treatment compositions of this invention can be delivered alone orin the presence of a dermatologically-acceptable carrier. The phrase“dermatologically-acceptable carrier”, as used herein, means that thecarrier is suitable for topical application to the keratinous tissue,has good aesthetic properties, is compatible with any additionalcomponents of the skin care composition, and will not cause any untowardsafety or toxicity concerns. The carrier can be in a wide variety offorms. Non-limiting examples include simple solutions (water or oilbased), emulsions, and solid forms (gels, sticks, flowable solids, wax,amorphous materials). In certain embodiments, the dermatologicallyacceptable carrier is in the form of an emulsion. Emulsion may begenerally classified as having a continuous aqueous phase (e.g.,oil-in-water and water-in-oil-in-water) or a continuous oil phase (e.g.,water-in-oil and oil-in-water-in-oil). The oil phase of the presentinvention may comprise silicone oils, non-silicone oils such ashydrocarbon oils, esters, ethers, and the like, and mixtures thereof.For example, emulsion carriers can include, but are not limited to,continuous water phase emulsions such as silicone-in-water,oil-in-water, and water-in-oil-in-water emulsion; and continuous oilphase emulsions such as water-in-oil and water-in-silicone emulsions,and oil-in-water-in-silicone emulsions. The treatment composition can bedelivered in a variety of product forms including, but not limited to, acream, a lotion, a gel, a foam, a paste, or a serum. Additionally, thetreatment composition can include for purposes of proper formulation andstabilization anti-fungal and anti-bacterial components.

The treatment compositions of the present invention may compriseshumectants as a carrier or chassis for the other components in thetreatment composition. An exemplary class of humectants is polyhydricalcohols. Suitable polyhydric alcohols include polyalkylene glycols andalkylene polyols and their derivatives, including propylene glycol,dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, polyethylene glycol andderivatives thereof; sorbitol; hydroxypropyl sorbitol; erythritol;threitol; pentaerythritol; xylitol; glucitol; mannitol; butylene glycol(e.g., 1,3-butylene glycol); pentylene glycol; hexane triol (e.g.,1,2,6-hexanetriol); glycerin; ethoxylated glycerine; and propoxylatedglycerine.

Other suitable humectants include sodium 2-pyrrolidone-5-carboxylate,guanidine; glycolic acid and glycolate salts (e.g., ammonium andquaternary alkyl ammonium); lactic acid and lactate salts (e.g.,ammonium and quaternary alkyl ammonium); aloe vera in any of its varietyof forms (e.g., aloe vera gel); hyaluronic acid and derivatives thereof(e.g., salt derivatives such as sodium hyaluronate); lactamidemonoethanolamine; acetamide monoethanolamine; urea; sodiumpyroglutamate, water-soluble glyceryl poly(meth)acrylate lubricants(such as Hispagel®) and mixtures thereof.

Inks, dyes, metal oxides and pigments (collectively referred to as“colorants” below) are used to modify the color or reflectance of thekeratinous surface. These compositions are commonly used to modify colorand reflectance in cosmetic, “make-up” compositions. Foundation,lipstick, eyeliner are just a few examples of these compositions, butthey are all applied evenly across large portions of the keratinoussurface, that is they are macro-applications. In sharp contrast, thepresent treatment compositions are selectively applied on a very smallscale to select areas, that is, a micro application. Suitable colorantsmay include inorganic or organic pigments and powders. Organic pigmentscan include natural colorants and synthetic monomeric and polymericcolorants. Organic pigments include various aromatic types such as azo,indigoid, triphenylmethane, anthraquinone, and xanthine dyes which aredesignated as D&C and FD&C blues, browns, greens, oranges, reds,yellows, etc. Organic pigments may consist of insoluble metallic saltsof certified color additives, referred to as the Lakes. Inorganicpigments include iron oxides, ferric ammonium ferrocyanide, manganeseviolet, ultramarines, chromium, chromium hydroxide colors, and mixturesthereof. The pigments may be coated with one or more ingredients thatcause the pigments to be hydrophobic. Suitable coating materials thatwill render the pigments more lipophilic in nature include silicones,lecithin, amino acids, phospholipids, inorganic and organic oils,polyethylene, and other polymeric materials. Suitable silicone treatedpigments as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,143,722. Inorganic white oruncolored pigments include TiO2, ZnO, ZrO2, hollow spheres orsemiconductor quantum dots, which are commercially available from anumber of sources. Other suitable colorants are identified in U.S. Pat.No. 7,166,279. Colorants are generally included at a weight percent suchthat the skin care composition yields a perceptible color. The colorantparticle shape is typically spherical, polygonal or fractal. In oneembodiment, the skin care composition exhibits a color that perceptiblydifferent from the color of the applicator. By perceptibly different,refers to a difference in color that is perceptible to a person havingnormal sensory abilities under standard lighting conditions (e.g.,natural illumination as experienced outdoors during daylight hours, theillumination of a standard 100 watt incandescent or equivalent LED whitelight bulb at a distance of 2 meters, or as defined by CIE D65 standardilluminate lighting at 800 lux to a 1964 CIE standard observer).

Adhesives that are compatible with keratinous surfaces are known and anysuch adhesive can be applied with the apparatuses of the presentinvention. Commercially available adhesives compatible with keratinoussurfaces are available from the 3M Corporation of Minneapolis Minn. See,for example: U.S. Pat. No. 6,461,467, issued to Blatchford, et al.,filed on Apr. 23, 2001; U.S. Pat. No. 5,614,310, issued to Delgado, etal., filed on Nov. 4, 1994; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,160,315, issued toHeinecke et al., filed on Apr. 5, 1991. The entire disclosures of thesepatent applications are incorporated by reference. After the adhesive isselectively applied to the keratinous surface, a second treatmentcomposition can be dusted on the keratinous surface where it will stickthe adhesive. The second modification that is not adhered to thekeratinous surface can then be removed leaving behind a selective, microapplication of the second treatment composition. Likewise compositionsthat cure upon exposure to certain wavelengths of energy, infrared lightor UV for example, are known to the art and can be applied by theapparatuses of the present invention. By this method, the curablecomposition is selectively applied to the keratinous surface and then itis cured by exposing the keratinous surface to the curing energy source.The entire keratinous surface can be exposed, or the exposure can bedone at the same time as the application.

Wrinkle or texture reducing polymers and skin tightening are known. See,for example: U.S. Pat. No. 6,139,829, issued to Estrin on Oct. 31, 2000;and US Patent Applications US20060210513A1, filed by Luizzi, et al. onMar. 21, 2005; US20070224158A1, filed by Cassin et al. on Mar. 18, 2005;and US20070148120A1, filed by Omura et al. on Jan. 14, 2005. The entiredisclosures of this patent and these published patent applications areincorporated by reference. More specifically, a cosmetic process forsoftening the wrinkles of wrinkled skin may comprise applying, to thewrinkled skin, a cosmetic composition, in particular an anti-wrinklecomposition, comprising, in a physiologically acceptable medium suitablefor topical application to the skin of the face: from 0.1 to 20% byweight of at least one tensioning agent, with respect to the totalweight of the composition.

Optically-activated particles can be used as or added to the treatmentcompositions of this invention. Sometimes referred to a “interferencepigments”, these particles include a plurality of substrate particlesselected from the group consisting of nylons, acrylics, polyesters,other plastic polymers, natural materials, regenerated cellulose,metals, hollow spheres, semiconductor quantum dots and minerals; anoptical brightener chemically bonded to each of the plurality ofsubstrate particles to form integral units in the form ofoptically-activated particles for diffusing light. These particles helpto reduce the visual perception of skin imperfections, includingcellulite, shadows, skin discolorations, and wrinkles. Each of theoptically-activated particles are encapsulated with a UV transparentcoating to increase the diffusion of light to further reduce the visualperception of the skin imperfections. The encapsulatedoptically-activated particles are able to absorb ultraviolet radiationand emit visible light; and the encapsulated optically-activatedparticles are able to both scatter and absorb light in a diffuse mannerin order to reduce the visual perception of skin imperfections,including cellulite, wrinkles, shadows, and skin discolorations, whenthe optically-activated particles are applied to the skin surface.

Hair colorants and hair removal compositions are also suitable for usewith the apparatuses of the present invention. These compositions, andtheir component parts, are best described by the examples given below.Each of the individual chemical compositions described below for haircolorants can be used in combination with any of the others ingredients,and likewise, those skilled in the art will appreciate that theindividual compositions given for depilatories can be used with otheringredients listed in other examples.

Skin care compositions can be applied with the apparatuses of thisinvention. The skin care composition may be used as, for example, amoisturizer, a conditioner, an anti-aging treatment, a skin lighteningtreatment, a sunscreen, a sunless tanner, and combinations thereof.

The skin care composition may comprise a safe and effective amount ofone or more skin care active (“active”) useful for regulating and/orimproving skin condition. “Safe and effective amount” means an amount ofa compound or composition sufficient to induce a positive benefit butlow enough to avoid serious side effects (i.e., provides a reasonablebenefit to risk ratio within the judgment of a skilled artisan). A safeand effective amount of a skin care active can be from about 1×10⁻⁶ toabout 25% by weight of the total composition, in another embodiment fromabout 0.0001 to about 25% by weight of the total composition, in anotherembodiment from about 0.01 to about 10% by weight of the totalcomposition, in another embodiment from about 0.1 to about 5% by weightof the total composition, in another embodiment from about 0.2 to about2% by weight of the total composition. Suitable actives include, but arenot limited to, vitamins (e.g., B3 compounds such as niacinamide,niacinnicotinic acid, tocopheryl nicotinate; B5 compounds, such aspanthenol; vitamin A compounds and natural and/or synthetic analogs ofVitamin A, including retinoids, retinol, retinyl acetate, retinylpalmitate, retinoic acid, retinaldehyde, retinyl propionate, carotenoids(pro-vitamin A); vitamin E compounds, or tocopherol, includingtocopherol sorbate, tocopherol acetate; vitamin C compounds, includingascorbate, ascorbyl esters of fatty acids, and ascorbic acid derivativessuch as magnesium ascorbyl phosphate and sodium ascorbyl phosphate,ascorbyl glucoside, and ascorbyl sorbate), peptides (e.g., peptidescontaining ten or fewer amino acids, their derivatives, isomers, andcomplexes with other species such as metal ions), sugar amines (e.g.,N-acetyl-glucosamine), sunscreens, oil control agents, tanning actives,anti-acne actives, desquamation actives, anti-cellulite actives,chelating agents, skin lightening agents, flavonoids, proteaseinhibitors (e.g., hexamidine and derivatives), non-vitamin antioxidantsand radical scavengers, peptides, salicylic acid, hair growthregulators, anti-wrinkle actives, anti-atrophy actives, minerals,phytosterols and/or plant hormones, tyrosinase inhibitors, N-acyl aminoacid compounds, moisturizers, plant extracts, and derivatives of any ofthe aforementioned actives. The term “derivative” as used herein refersto structures which are not shown but which one skilled in the art wouldunderstand are variations of the basic compound. For example, removing ahydrogen atom from benzene and replacing it with a methyl group.Suitable actives are further described in U.S. application publicationNo. US2006/0275237A1 and US2004/0175347A1.

Contrast Ratio

Herein, “contrast ratio” refers to the opacity of the composition, orthe ability of the composition to reduce or prevent light transmission,determined after the composition is drawn onto an opacity chart (FormN2A, Leneta Company of Manwah, N.J. or the equivalent thereof), and byusing a spectrophotometer with settings selected to exclude specularreflection. The composition is applied to the top of the opacity chartand then is drawn into a film having a thickness of approximately 0.01inches using a film applicator (e.g., as commercially available from BYKGardner of Columbia, Md., or the equivalent thereof). The film isallowed to dry for 2 hours under conditions of 22° C.+/−1° C., 1 atm.Using a spectrophotometer, the Y tristimulus value (i.e., the XYZ colorspace of the film) of the product film is measured and recorded. The Ytristimulus value is measured in three different areas of the productfilm over the black section of the opacity chart, and also in threedifferent areas of the product film over the white section of theopacity chart.

The contrast ratio for the individual layers of the present invention,that is the contrast ratio for the first layer or the powder layer isless than about 20, preferably less than about 10, and even morepreferably less than about 6.

The contrast ratio is calculated as the mathematical average of thethree Y tristimulus values over the black areas, divided by themathematical average of the three Y tristimulus values over the whiteareas, times 100:

${{Contrast}\mspace{14mu}{Ratio}} = {\frac{{average}\mspace{14mu}({Yblack})}{{average}\mspace{14mu}({Ywhite})} \times 100}$

EXAMPLES

The following examples further describe and demonstrate embodimentswithin the scope of the present invention. The examples are given solelyfor the purpose of illustration and are not to be construed aslimitations of the present invention, as many variations thereof arepossible without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

The following 9 Examples are all treatment compositions of the presentinventions. They can be applied by any of the methods and apparatusesdescribed herein, preferably, they are applied via a thermal ink jetprinter head and cartridge combination.

Example 1

Treatment Composition Phase ingredient description wt % A Water water64.80 A Veegum HS Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 2.00 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 15.00 B PEG-2M PEG2M 0.10 C GLW45GYAP 45% Iron Oxideslurry in glycerin/ 0.60 (yellow iron oxide) water C GLW75PFAP-MP 75%TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 15.00 C PVP/VA W 735 50% VP/VA Copolymerin water 1.50 D Symdiol Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Combine phase B in aseparate container and add to phase A with mixing while phase A cools.Add components of phase C one at a time to phase A/B while it continuesto cool. When temperature reaches approximately 50 C, add phase D whilecontinuing to mix. Mix for 2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pourinto container.

Example 2

Treatment Composition Phase ingredient description wt % A Water water66.40 A Veegum HS Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 0.50 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 15.00 B GLW45GYAP 45% Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/0.60 (yellow iron oxide) water B GLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry inglycerin/water 15.00 B PVP/VA W 735 50% VP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50 CSymdiol Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Add components of phase Bone at a time to phase A while it continues to cool. When temperaturereaches approximately 50 C, add phase C while continuing to mix. Mix for2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pour into container.

Example 3

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A Water water68.25 A Veegum Ultra Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 0.50 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 13.50 B Sicovit Yellow 100% Yellow Iron Oxide 0.25 IronOxide B GLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 15.00 B PVP/VA W735 50% VP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50 C Symdiol Hexanediol/Caprylylglycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Add components of phase Bone at a time to phase A while it continues to cool. When temperaturereaches approximately 50 C, add phase C while continuing to mix. Mix for2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pour into container.

Example 4

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A PropyleneGlycol Propylene Glycol 15.00 A Versaflex V-150 Steareth-100,Steareth-2, Mannan, 0.50 Xanthan Gum B Water Water 66.75 B SymdiolHexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00 C Sicovit Yellow 100% Yellow Iron Oxide0.25 Iron Oxide C GLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 15.00 CPVP/VA W 735 50% VP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50

Combine ingredients of phase A until uniform. Slowly add components ofphase B one at a time with mixing. Add components of phase C one at atime using homogenizer to phase A/B to ensure uniformity and evendispersion. Mix for 2-3 minutes then pour into container.

Example 5

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A Water water70.23 A Veegum Ultra Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 0.40 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 12.50 B Sodium Carboxymethyl Cellulose Gum 0.40Cellulose 7L2P C Sicovit Yellow Iron 100% Yellow Iron Oxide 0.22 Oxide CSachtleben RC402 Titanium Dioxide 13.75 C PVP/VA W 735 50% VP/VACopolymer in 1.50 water D Symdiol Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Combine phase B in aseparate container and add to phase A with mixing while phase A cools.Add components of phase C one at a time to phase A/B while it continuesto cool. When temperature reaches approximately 50 C, add phase D whilecontinuing to mix. Mix for 2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pourinto container.

Example 6

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A Water water65.80 A Veegum HS Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 2.00 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 15.00 B Natrosol 250 LR Hydroxyethylcellulose 0.50 BPEG-2M PEG2M 0.10 C GLW45GYAP 45% Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/ 0.60(yellow iron oxide) water C GLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry inglycerin/water 15.00 D Symdiol Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Combine phase B in aseparate container and add to phase A with mixing while phase A cools.Add components of phase C one at a time to phase A/B while it continuesto cool. When temperature reaches approximately 50 C, add phase D whilecontinuing to mix. Mix for 2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pourinto container.

Example 7

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A Water water70.08 A Veegum Ultra Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 0.40 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 12.50 B Keltrol CG-T Xanthan Gum 0.05 C Sicovit YellowIron 100% Yellow Iron Oxide 0.22 Oxide C Sachtleben RC402 TitaniumDioxide 13.75 C PVP K15 30% PVP in water 2.00 D SymdiolHexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Combine phase B in aseparate container and add to phase A with mixing while phase A cools.Add components of phase C one at a time to phase A/B while it continuesto cool. When temperature reaches approximately 50 C, add phase D whilecontinuing to mix. Mix for 2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pourinto container.

Example 8

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A PropyleneGlycol Propylene Glycol 15.00 A Versaflex V-150 Steareth-100,Steareth-2, 0.50 Mannan, Xanthan Gum B Water Water 64.90 B SymdiolHexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00 C Sicovit Yellow Iron 100% Yellow IronOxide 2.00 Oxide C Sicovit Red Iron Oxide 100% Red Iron Oxide 0.10 CGLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 15.00 C PVP/VA W 735 50%PVP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50

Combine ingredients of phase A until uniform. Slowly add components ofphase B one at a time with mixing. Add components of phase C one at atime using homogenizer to phase A/B to ensure uniformity and evendispersion. Mix for 2-3 minutes then pour into container.

Example 9

Treatment Composition phase ingredient description wt % A Water water61.25 A Veegum HS Magnesium Aluminum Silicate 2.00 B Propylene GlycolPropylene Glycol 15.00 B PEG-2M Polyethylene Glycol 0.10 C GLW45GYAP 45%Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/ 4.00 (yellow iron oxide) water CGLW55GRAP 55% Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/ 0.15 (red iron oxide) waterC GLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 15.00 C PVP/VA W 73550% PVP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50 D Symdiol 50/50 Hexanediol/Caprylylglycol 1.00

Combine ingredients of phase A using a homogenizer for mixing andsifting the Veegum into the water. Begin heating water to 75 C. Continueto mix for 20 min at 75 C. Then shut off heat. Combine phase B in aseparate container and add to phase A with mixing while phase A cools.Add components of phase C one at a time to phase A/B while it continuesto cool. When temperature reaches approximately 50 C, add phase D whilecontinuing to mix. Mix for 2-3 minutes to ensure homogeneity then pourinto container.

Example 10

Treatment Composition Phase ingredient description wt % A GLW75PFAP-MP75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/ 22.50 water A GLW45GYAP 45% Iron Oxideslurry in glycerin/ 3.33 (yellow iron oxide) water A GLW55GRAP 55% IronOxide slurry in glycerin/ 0.17 (red iron oxide) water B Water water 5.00B Sodium Hydroxide NaOH pellets 0.02 Solid C Water water 43.15 CPropylene Glycol Propylene Glycol 15.00 C PVP/VA W 735 50% PVP/VACopolymer in water 1.50 C Symdiol 50/50 Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00D Water water 8.33

Combine the ingredients in phase A and mix until color is homogenous.Combine the ingredients in phase B and mix until the solid NaOH isthoroughly dissolved. Combine the ingredients in phase C using anoverhead mixer to disperse the ingredients. Use a homogenizer to beginmilling phase C and slowly adding phase A to phase C. Use phase D as awash for the phase A container and add the wash to phase C. Mill for 10minutes or until all ingredients are homogenous. Add phase B to thecombined phases as the final addition. Mill and mix the combined phasesuntil homogenous.

Example 11

The following Example includes relatively large particles, andsignificantly reduced visible red tint.

Treatment Composition Phase ingredient description wt % A GLW55GRAP 55%Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/ 0.17 (red iron oxide) water A GLW45GYAP45% Iron Oxide slurry in glycerin/ 3.33 (yellow iron oxide) water AGLW75PFAP-MP 75% TiO2 slurry in glycerin/water 22.50 A Water water 24.00B Water water 32.48 B Propylene Glycol Propylene Glycol 15.00 B PVP/VA W735 50% PVP/VA Copolymer in water 1.50 B Symdiol 50/50Hexanediol/Caprylyl glycol 1.00 B Sodium Hydroxide NaOH pellets 0.02Solid

Combine the components of phase A together using an overhead mixer untilall ingredients are homogenous. Combine the ingredients of phase Btogether in a separate container with an overhead mixer until the solidNaOH is dissolved and all ingredients are homogenous. Add phase A to oneinjection chamber of a liquid whistle sonolator system and the other tothe second injection chamber. These will serve as two streams ofmaterial to form the final product Simultaneously pump both phases intothe liquid whistle at 2500 PSI with the internal blade set at a halfturn. Collect final product that has reached the required pressure.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5 and 6, which are photographs of the samefemale consumer. FIG. 4 represents her washed, natural, and uncoatedskin. FIG. 5 was taken after the subject applied makeup to her face in amanner she would normally do. FIG. 6 was taken after the consumer'smakeup was removed and her face treated with the apparatus and methodsof this invention. FIGS. 4, 5 and 6 are all taken on the same day, withno appreciable sun exposure between photographs (i.e. the consumer wasindoors for the entire treatment period).

Skin deviations 101, 102, 103 and 104 are clear in FIG. 4. After makeupis applied, skin deviations 101, 102, 103 and 104 are all still visible.There are tonal differences on the consumer's skin as well as the skindeviations of FIG. 5 vs. FIG. 4. It is clear from FIGS. 4 and 5 thatmakeup changes the overall tone of human skin, but does not cover upimperfections.

The consumer washes her face to remove the applied makeup after thephotograph of FIG. 5 is taken, and then her skin is treated with theapparatuses and methods of this invention, then the photograph of FIG. 6is taken. Skin deviations 101, 102 and 104 from FIGS. 4 and 5 arelargely invisible in FIG. 6. Skin deviation 103 is barely visible aftertreatment with the present apparatuses and methods. Accordingly, thepresent apparatuses and methods provide a substantial and visible changeto the appearance of human skin versus the natural condition of the skinand the skin with applied makeup.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation ofany document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect toany invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in anycombination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests ordiscloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of analyzing and treating tonalimperfections on human skin that comprises the steps of: a. providing anapparatus comprising an array of nozzles operatively associated with aprocessor; b. providing a preselected background lightness (L) value; c.taking a treatment image of the skin and calculating at least one localL value of individual pixels or group of pixels within the treatmentimage, wherein the local L value is calculated along the length of, andin the firing range of, the array of nozzles; d. comparing the local Lvalue to the background L value; e. identifying a skin deviation wherethe absolute value of the difference between the local L and thebackground L is greater than a predetermined set delta L (ΔL_(S)) value;and f. treating the skin deviation with a treatment composition usingthe array of nozzles.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein thepredetermined ΔL_(S) value is plus or minus 1.5% of the background L. 3.The method of claim 1, wherein the background L value is selected by auser prior to practicing the method.
 4. The method of claim 1, whereinthe background L value is preprogrammed into the apparatus.
 5. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the contrast ratio of the treatmentcomposition when treating the skin is at least 0.1 and has a L value ofat least 1.5% greater than the background L.
 6. The method of claim 1,wherein the image is either taken in a grey scale or converted to a greyscale, the grey scale having a range of 0-255 units.
 7. The method ofclaim 6, wherein the predetermined ΔL_(S) value is greater than
 3. 8.The method of claim 6 where the difference between grey scale steps isat least 1/255.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatmentcomposition is applied to the skin deviations in a discontinuousdeposition pattern of discrete droplets between 0.1 μm to about 50 μm insize.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein no more than 95% of the skindeviation is covered by the treatment composition.
 11. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the skin deviation is treated with skin treatmentcomposition one or more times until the difference between thebackground L and the local L of the skin deviation is less than 1.5% ofthe background L.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein an individualnozzle is fired to deposit the treatment composition, and the number ofnozzles fired along the array of nozzles can be adjusted based on thesize of the measured delta L (ΔL_(M)) value and the size of the skindeviation.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatment compositioncomprises particles and has a particle settling rate of less than 0.03mm per day at 25° C. and 1 atm pressure, and an elastic modulus betweenabout 0.1 Pascals (Pa) to about 1000 Pa at 25° C. and 1000 Hz.
 14. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the treatment composition comprises particleshaving a refractive index of between about 1.1 and about 5.0.
 15. Themethod of claim 1, wherein the treatment composition further comprisesone or more particulate suspending agents in a concentration of fromabout 0.05% to about 2.0%; one or more film forming polymers in aconcentration of from about 0.1% to about 5.0%; particles in aconcentration of from about 1.0% to about 20.0%; one or more humectantsin a concentration of from about 2.0% to about 20.0%, by weight of thetreatment composition; and, water.
 16. An apparatus for treating humanskin comprising: an applicator comprising a head comprising an array ofnozzles; a reservoir comprising a skin treatment composition; a sensor;and a processor; wherein the sensor is operatively associated with theprocessor, and the processor is operatively associated with thereservoir and the array of nozzles; wherein the sensor is configured tocapture an image of at least 10 μm² of skin; the processor is configuredto analyze the image to calculate one or more local lightness (L) valuesof individual pixels or group of pixels and compare the one or morelocal L values to a preselected background L value to identify a skindeviation.
 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the sensor is a cameracapable of taking continuous images at a rate of at least 4 frames persecond.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the readingsmade by the sensor contain a value for a characteristic selected fromthe group of color, brightness, reflectance, refractance temperature,texture and mixtures thereof.
 19. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein theapplicator is a thermal inkjet printer and cartridge assembly.
 20. Theapparatus of claim 16 wherein the sensor is a camera that takes blackand white or color images; or a spectrophotometer that is sensitive toelectromagnetic energy wavelengths such as ultraviolet (uv) infrared(IR); or a chemical sensor, or an ultrasonic sensor.